There are two overlapping aspects of this: mobile data networkingusing cellular networks (especially new higher-speed 2.5G networksbased on 1xRTT and EDGE technology), and wirelessly extending theenterprise network using 802.11 broadband fixed wireless technology ina facility or on campus.

One point of overlap is public broadband wireless-access hotspots inhotels, airports, conference centres and coffee shops. Some mobileservice providers are already working on integrating mobile and 802.11hotspot networks to provide customers with seamless, optimal coveragewherever they go.

Angus prefers the expression "mobile business" to the more popular"m-commerce" when referring to this technology's impact on business,because he believes the real opportunities are not in selling thingsto customers over mobile networks but in extending the enterpriseoutside the office. "Where we're seeing quick payoffs is in equippingmobile workers with wireless services," he says.

One of Angus's clients, a company that sells service contracts toconsumers, recently equipped sales people with wirelessly connectedPCs that allow them to log in to a corporate server from the customer'spremises, run quotes based on up-to-the-minute pricing, figurepersonalized variations for prospects, and initiate sales online.

"They tripled their close rate," Angus says. "Before, they would haveto go back to the office, check prices, submit forms. By the time theycame back, half the people had changed their minds. It wasn't a bigapplication - it's not a big company - but it made a huge impact."